Ear pinning surgery, or “otoplasty,” is commonly sought by parents for their children who have large, misshapen, or protruding ears. However, this surgery isn’t exclusively for children and there isn’t an age limit for undergoing otoplasty.
Otoplasty derives from “oto” meaning “ear,” and is a type of cosmetic or reconstructive plastic surgery aimed at addressing ear-related issues. While otoplasty is frequently performed on children aged seven to 14 to prevent bullying and benefit from more pliable cartilage, it’s never too late to consider this procedure. Adults of all ages may choose otoplasty to increase their confidence and improve their appearance.
The perception of plastic surgery has also evolved over time, with more people seeking these procedures to correct physical attributes they find unappealing. This is evident in the fact that over 50,000 Americans underwent otoplasty in 2020.
Otoplasty is not only employed to decrease ear size or pull them closer to the head, but also to correct disproportionate or asymmetrical ears, folded ear tips, ears that appear too small, and damage from injuries.
The procedure differs slightly between children and adults due to anesthesia considerations, but overall follows a set process. The patient is given anesthesia before the surgeon makes small incisions, generally behind the ear. After reshaping the cartilage and tissue for a more pleasing look, sutures are used to close the incisions.
Recovery from otoplasty mirrors that of other plastic surgeries, with older adults perhaps requiring a longer healing period. Full recovery typically occurs within six weeks with some swelling and bruising expected initially. Following the surgeon’s post-operative instructions, avoiding smoking, and refraining from lifting heavy objects until receiving the surgeon’s clearance can help ensure a smooth recovery. Regular exercise can be resumed once the surgeon indicates it’s safe.